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Like a perfectly tailored jacket, a refined fragrance can up your sophistication game—so long as you know how to apply it properly. In fact, deciding between sandalwood and cedar is only half the battle in scent success. It’s the art of spritzing and dabbing that can separate you from the herd, and attention to detail here can mean the difference between leaving a lasting impression and clearing out a conference room.
In an effort to help you hit the right notes every time, we visited five leading department stores to score scent secrets from the pros behind the counter. (If you hadn’t noticed, most luxury retailers have swapped out spray-happy brand associates for knowledgeable fragrance advisors, so you’ll never get an accidental shot in the mouth while walking by.) They’re the folks that can sniff out the nuances between, say, the John Varvatos Artisan and Artisan Black scents, and advise you on proper application tips. Here are the best rules we came by…
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Quit Crushing the Scent
“Never rub your wrists together after applying fragrance. Alcohol-based fragrances are supposed to gradually release top, middle, and base notes, and the friction from rubbing burns off that top layer right off the bat.” –Andy A., Barneys New York
Consider the Fragrance Cloud
“If you’re wearing a really rich fragrance, spritz it in the air and walk through it so you don’t overdo it. Less intense scents can be applied directly to your skin.” –George G., Neiman Marcus
Find Your Hot Spots
“Think about dabbing fragrance in the places you sweat, or where you can feel your pulse beat, since heat intensifies the effects. This is why lighter citrus notes are best for summer and your skin can handle heavier woody and spicy notes in the winter.” –Regina G., Saks Fifth Avenue
Layer With Caution
“Only layer fragrances that have one or two notes in them. Most of the big brands have statement scents with hundreds of notes, and should really be worn alone. You should even skip things like scented body wash or deodorant with these, unless it’s from the same line, so you don’t distort the scent. ” –Amanda W., Nordstrom
Grease Your Base
“It’s good to be a little dirty when you put fragrance on. The natural oils in your skin mix with the fragrance notes to amplify the scent, and help it to last longer on your body. However, if you stink, don’t try and mask the smell with scent. Take a shower and apply right after. The steam opens up your pores, which helps scent stick around, too.”–Victoria Z., Bloomingdale’s
